Renfrewshire families heading abroad this summer are being reminded to prepare for new European Union border checks as schools close for the holidays.
Schools across Renfrewshire finished for the summer today (Tuesday 30th June), with pupils now on their summer break.
The UK Government is reminding anyone travelling to Europe to be aware of the European Union’s new Entry/Exit System (EES) and to check with their travel operator before setting off.
The EES replaces passport stamps by digitally recording each time a non-EU national enters or leaves the Schengen area. It applies to travel to most EU countries, as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. It does not apply to Ireland or Cyprus.
The first time travellers use the system, they will need to register. Their passport and fingerprints will be scanned, and a photograph will be taken.
After registration, travellers will usually only need a passport scan and one biometric check, either a photograph or fingerprint scan, each time they enter or leave.
For most travellers, checks will take place at passport control after arriving in their destination country and again when leaving.
However, passengers travelling via Eurostar from London St Pancras, Le Shuttle through the Eurotunnel at Folkestone, or ferries from the Port of Dover will complete entry checks before leaving the UK.
Although the checks are expected to take only a few minutes per person, the Home Office says queues could be longer during the busy summer period. Travellers are advised to follow guidance from their travel operator, including advice on when to arrive at airports or ports.
Minister for Border Security and Asylum, Alex Norris, said: “As the school summer holidays begin in Scotland, it’s important that those heading abroad remember the EU’s Entry/Exit checks.
“We encourage all families to follow travel operator guidance to know when to arrive at airports and ports and what to expect.
“While this is an EU scheme, we continue working closely with European partners and the travel industry on keeping journeys smooth.”
EES registration remains valid for three years, or until a passport expires, whichever comes first.
Travellers can also check the latest country-specific entry requirements through Travel Aware and find more information about the Entry/Exit System on www.gov.uk.